Landlord barricades himself into Dublin guesthouse, locks out guests and staff, court hears
The High Court has heard the landlord of a Dublin guest house has barricaded himself into the buildings, locking out staff and guests.
Derek Byrne, who runs the Leeson Bridge Guest House on Upper Leeson Street, has secured an order directing Desmond Killoran to vacate the premises.
The court heard Mr Byrne had to gain entry through a side window after a staff member on the breakfast shift called last Wednesday to say she was locked out.
He found the exits of the Guest House nailed up and landlord Desmond Killoran in reception. Mr Byrne said Mr Killoran told him his lease was terminated.
Mr Byrne said his rent has always been paid promptly and added he believes the landlord is trying to stop a receiver appointed by AIB last month from getting this income, valued at €148,000.
Mr Byrne said he had to find alternative accomodation for guests, was concerned about future bookings and described the episode as hugely embarrassing and damaging.
The High Court has put the case back for two weeks, but in the meantime has granted a temporary order directing the landlord to vacate the premises.
